We're no stranger to unique cargo situations at Modula. Which is why we were prepared when a customer wanted to carry 2 Rad Power Step Through E-Bikes using the 2.5" hitch on their GMC Denali HD.
In this instance, the 2.5" hitch immediately restricted the options to bike racks that are NOT Tool-Free. Non-Tool-Free bike racks feature a pin that goes through the hitch which keeps the rack stable within the hitch, and without this the bike rack wouldn't stay into a 2.5" hitch.
Next, the bikes themselves provided challenges as well. These Rad Power E-Bikes weigh nearly 50lbs each, so we made sure to choose a rack with a capacity of at least 50lbs per bike. The drop-through frames also meant that we couldn't use a thru-frame bike rack design without getting additional adaptor bars. The 3"+ width of the tires also needed a wide enough track to fit into.
All these things considered, the Yakima OnRamp was the best choice from our catalogue, and provided the added benefit of a ramp for rolling the bikes onto the rack.
The world of bike racks can be a confusing one, there's a ton of choice in the market and a lot of the options can appear very similar on first glance. However, we usually find through helping customers that once the vehicle mounting point and the specifics of the bikes are determined, it really helps narrow it down.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by all the choice out there, ask one of our experienced adventurers and they will be happy to help guide you to the perfect bike rack.
